Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16936SAUEA/V+

Overview

MAX16936SAUEA/V+ from Maxim Integrated is a 2.5A current-mode synchronous step-down converter with integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs, designed for automotive power supplies operating from 3.5V to 36V input. It delivers fixed 5V output (±2% accuracy), supports 220kHz–2.2MHz resistor-programmable switching frequency, achieves 98% max duty cycle during cold-crank transients, and consumes only 28µA quiescent current at no load - enabling always-on systems in vehicle infotainment and ADAS modules.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16936SAUEA/V+ datasheet, MAX16936SAUEA/V+ pinout, MAX16936SAUEA/V+ application, or MAX16936SAUEA/V+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its AEC-Q100 qualification, 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT for cascaded rails, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, 42V load-dump tolerance, and FPWM/skip-mode selectability via FSYNC pin - all critical for robust automotive DC-DC design.

Technical Context

The MAX16936SAUEA/V+ implements current-mode control with cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection and automatic LX slew-rate adjustment (4ns at >1.1MHz, 8ns otherwise) to balance EMI and efficiency. Its dual supply inputs (SUP/SUPSW) decouple logic and power-switch domains, supporting stable operation down to 3.5V while maintaining 98% duty cycle during undervoltage events.

It integrates a 5V BIAS LDO (4.7–5.4V output, ±650mV UVLO hysteresis) that powers internal circuitry until OUT reaches regulation, then transitions to OUT-supplied bias above 100mA load. The PGOOD output asserts at 95% VFB and deasserts at 92% VFB, enabling precise power sequencing in multi-rail systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16936SAUEA/V+ is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed pad for thermal dissipation. Pin numbering follows standard TSSOP top-view orientation (pin 1 at top-left corner, counterclockwise).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-down converter applications.

Compared with LM61480QRTWRQ1 and TPS62933QPWRRQ1, the MAX16936SAUEA/V+ uniquely combines AEC-Q100 qualification, 180° SYNCOUT for interleaving, programmable FPWM/skip mode, and spread-spectrum EMI reduction - making it optimal for automotive systems demanding both robustness and electromagnetic compatibility.

Availability

MAX16936SAUEA/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MAX16936SAUEA/V+ includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) designs high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets, with emphasis on power management, interface, and sensing solutions.

The MAX16936 belongs to Maxim's automotive-grade DC-DC converter product line, engineered specifically for harsh-temperature, high-reliability vehicle subsystems requiring low IQ, wide VIN, and robust transient handling.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage the MAX16936SAUEA/V+ can withstand during load-dump events?

The MAX16936SAUEA/V+ is rated for 42V transient input during load-dump events per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a, with self-protection against transients ≤50ns exceeding absolute maximum ratings. This eliminates the need for external TVS diodes in most automotive designs, reducing cost and board area while maintaining AEC-Q100 compliance.

Does the MAX16936SAUEA/V+ support adjustable output voltages, or is it fixed at 5V?

The MAX16936SAUEA/V+ supports both configurations: it delivers a factory-trimmed fixed 5V output (±2% accuracy) when FB is connected to BIAS, and enables adjustable 1V–10V outputs via an external resistive divider from OUT to FB to AGND - using VFB = 1.0V as the reference point per the datasheet.

How does the FSYNC pin control operating mode in the MAX16936SAUEA/V+?

The FSYNC pin selects between skip mode (FSYNC tied to AGND) for lowest quiescent current, and forced-PWM (FPWM) mode (FSYNC tied to BIAS or external clock) for fixed-frequency operation. In FPWM mode, the integrated low-side MOSFET ensures consistent switching regardless of load, minimizing EMI variation critical for RF-sensitive applications.

What thermal management features does the MAX16936SAUEA/V+ include?

The MAX16936SAUEA/V+ incorporates thermal shutdown at +175°C (typ) with 15°C hysteresis, junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 38.3°C/W in TSSOP-EP, and mandatory EP soldering to a large PGND copper plane. These features ensure safe operation under sustained 2.5A loads even in +125°C ambient environments typical of automotive under-hood locations.

Can multiple MAX16936SAUEA/V+ devices be synchronized for interleaved operation?

Yes - the MAX16936SAUEA/V+ provides an open-drain SYNCOUT pin delivering a 180° out-of-phase clock signal relative to its internal oscillator. Connecting SYNCOUT of one device to FSYNC of another enables precise interleaving, reducing input/output ripple current and improving thermal distribution in high-power multi-phase designs.